How can we improve our health through physical activity?
A range of sports and activities are available to us to help improve our health.
By participating in physical activity we are able to improve our:
- Cardiovascular/respiratory endurance
This is improved by activities such as running, walking, swimming and activities which increase our heart rate.
- Stamina
Continuous activity helps improve our stamina which allows us to perform longer
- Strength
Improving muscles allows us to exert force. This is obtained by lifting weights, and other strenuous exercises.
- Flexibility
A common exercise known to improve flexibility is stretching. This is required in many sports and used in preparation to performing.
- Power
Power is a timed rate of how much we can maintain. It is required in many sports and used in preparation to performing
- Speed
Speed can be improved by enhancing a combination of areas such as strength and power which can contribute to the rate of change of the position.
- Coordination
Coordination can be improved through sports that involve balls, increasing hand-eye-coordination
- Agility
This is used to change directions quicker and more efficiently.
- Balance
Is an ability to maintain the centre of gravity, of a body within the base of support with minimal postural sway. This gives you a more solid and stable foundation.
- Accuracy
Accuracy can be improved through repetition of the same activity. This can allow you to be more accurate whilst playing sports that involve balls.